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Château Fonplegade: A Saint-Émilion Jewel

Discover Château Fonplegade, a Grand Cru Classé estate in Saint-Émilion, where history, sustainable viticulture, and exceptional wines converge to create an unforgettable experience.

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Château Fonplegade, a Grand Cru Classé estate in Saint-Émilion, offers a captivating blend of history, viticultural innovation, and stunning landscapes. Dating back to Roman times, the estate boasts a rich heritage, with evidence of vineyards existing since the 2nd century. Acquired in 2004 by Denise and Stephen Adams, Château Fonplegade has undergone extensive revitalization, including vineyard improvements, cellar renovations, and the restoration of the château itself. Today, Fonplegade stands as a model of organic and biodynamic farming, producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of Saint-Émilion. Visitors can enjoy tours and tastings, immersing themselves in the world of fine wine while exploring the estate's picturesque grounds and historical significance. With its commitment to quality and sustainability, Château Fonplegade provides an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts and travelers alike.

A brief summary to Château Fonplegade

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tour and tasting in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the vineyards and cellars.
  • Consider visiting during the harvest season (September/October) to witness the winemaking process in action.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as some tours may take place outdoors.
  • Allow ample time for your visit to fully appreciate the estate's history, beauty, and wines.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Saint-Émilion, head east on D243, then turn right onto D121e1. Continue onto Chemin de Fonplegade. Château Fonplegade will be on your left. There is visitor parking available at the Château.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From the center of Saint-Émilion, a taxi or ride-share service (like Uber) will take approximately 5-10 minutes to reach Château Fonplegade. Expect to pay around €15-€25 for the ride. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't a direct public transport route to Château Fonplegade, you can take the train to Saint-Émilion station, then use the Tuk-Tuk des Cordeliers shuttle service (€5 per person) or a taxi to reach the Château.

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Discover more about Château Fonplegade

Nestled in the heart of Saint-Émilion, Château Fonplegade stands as a testament to centuries of winemaking tradition and innovation. This Grand Cru Classé estate, with its rich history and commitment to sustainable practices, offers visitors an immersive experience into the world of fine wine. The history of Château Fonplegade dates back to Roman times, with evidence suggesting that vines have been cultivated on the estate since the 2nd century. The name "Fonplegade" itself translates to "fountain of plenty," derived from a natural spring on the property that has provided sustenance to both pilgrims and vines for centuries. In 1852, Jean-Pierre Beylot recognized the potential of the estate and consolidated the various plots to form the vineyard as it is known today. The estate further gained prominence when it was acquired by the Duke de Morny, half-brother of Napoleon III. In 2004, Denise and Stephen Adams acquired Château Fonplegade and embarked on a mission to revitalize the estate. They worked tirelessly to improve the vineyards, renovate the cellars, and restore the château to its former glory. Their efforts have transformed Fonplegade into a model of sustainable viticulture, with the estate achieving organic certification in 2013 and biodynamic certification in 2020. This commitment to environmental stewardship is reflected in the quality and character of the wines produced at Fonplegade. The 18.5-hectare vineyard at Château Fonplegade is planted primarily with Merlot (90%), along with Cabernet Franc (10%). The vines benefit from the estate's prime location on the Saint-Émilion plateau, with its diverse soils of limestone, clay, and sand. These varied soil types contribute to the complexity and depth of the wines, while the estate's south-facing slopes ensure optimal sun exposure. Château Fonplegade offers visitors a range of experiences, including tours and tastings. Guests can explore the estate's picturesque grounds, learn about its history and winemaking practices, and sample the exceptional wines produced on site. The tours provide insights into the estate's commitment to organic and biodynamic farming, as well as its use of traditional and modern techniques to craft wines of exceptional quality. The winemaking philosophy at Château Fonplegade is centered on respecting the terroir and allowing the wines to express their unique character. The estate employs a combination of traditional and modern techniques, including hand harvesting, careful sorting of the grapes, and fermentation in temperature-controlled vats. The wines are then aged in a combination of new and used French oak barrels, as well as concrete eggs and amphorae, to further enhance their complexity and finesse. The wines of Château Fonplegade are known for their elegance, balance, and aromatic complexity. They typically exhibit notes of ripe red and black fruits, along with hints of spice, earth, and floral nuances. The tannins are typically well-integrated, providing a smooth and velvety texture. These wines are capable of aging gracefully for many years, developing further complexity and nuance over time. Beyond its commitment to winemaking excellence, Château Fonplegade is also dedicated to preserving the environment and promoting biodiversity. The estate has implemented a range of sustainable practices, including the use of cover crops, the installation of beehives, and the introduction of sheep and hens to the vineyards. These efforts not only enhance the health of the ecosystem but also contribute to the overall quality of the wines. A visit to Château Fonplegade is an opportunity to experience the best of Saint-Émilion, from its rich history and stunning landscapes to its exceptional wines and commitment to sustainability. Whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveler, Château Fonplegade offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking and the beauty of the Bordeaux region. To make the most of your visit, it is recommended to book your tour and tasting in advance. The estate is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the vineyards and cellars. And of course, don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views and memorable moments of your visit.

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